English Dictionary

Define dictionary terms easily in our powerful online English dictionary.

Searching for...

No matching words found

Try a different search term or browse the dictionary

Definition tempt in British English

tempt verb

[transitive] verb
/tempt/
1

to make you want to do or to have something, especially something that is not good for you

Example

The shop windows were lit invitingly, tempting the late shoppers.

Example

'Do you want another drink?' 'I'm tempted.'

Example

Don't be tempted to spend too much.

Example

You try to tempt the defender into making a tackle.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

used about something that is wrong or dangerous

Example

I was sorely (=strongly) tempted to hit him.

Example

Unemployment undoubtedly increases the number of those tempted into crime.

Synonyms and related words
1.2

used about something that is good or attractive

Example

The programmes are designed to tempt young people into engineering.

Synonyms and related words
2

to try to persuade someone to do something wrong by offering them a reward if they do it

Example

Jesus was tempted by the Devil.

Synonyms and related words
Definition tempt in British English